Advocacy for Public Education

The Board's advocacy for public education is based on respect for democratic processes and has the long-term goal of building support for Saanich schools, and a healthy public education system in general, specifically through the provision of adequate funding and strengthening equality and equity within the system.

Developing this support may occur through a variety of outreach avenues, such as lobbying the provincial government and local MLAs, building awareness and developing informed allies among local governments and community groups, and positioning the district as an engaged and cooperative community resource.

Internally, the Board's advocacy should be focussed on continuing to build respectful awareness and support and strong two-way communication links with district parent and employee groups, building relationships through a practice of continuous engagement.

Focus 2023-24

Objective:

To secure adequate provincial funding through a revised finance formula that meets actual costs, including inflationary increases, for 2023-24 and beyond.

Strategies:

1. Continue building awareness and informed relationships with internal and external groups and agencies.
2. Arrange meetings with the Minister of Education and Child Care, various Ministry officials, and local MLAs to demonstrate the need for a revised funding formula and increased levels of support.
3. Seek leadership and support from provincial bodies such as BC School Trustees’ Association (BCSTA), BC School Superintendents’ Association (BCSSA), BC Association of School Business Officials (BCASBO) and BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils (BCCPAC).
4. Demonstrate and share successes and challenges, and encourage internal allies to advocate for increased funding
5. Provide opportunities for meetings with local community governments and community agencies such as Beacon Community Services to exchange information and support common interests.