WHEREAS in the 20032004 school year, the Ministry of Education began funding school districts primarily on a per pupil basis; AND WHEREAS in light of declining enrollment in many districts, under the current funding formula it is difficult, if not impossible, to sustain the delivery of the full range of quality educational programs for which the provincial educational system has been well recognized in fact, school districts throughout the province have found it necessary to close schools at great detrimental impact to many communities and local neighbourhoods: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Minister of Education be requested to review the current funding formula for school districts with a view to increasing the levels of provincial funding and support, including: - re-instatement of base funding to support school administration, library services, clerical services, supplies and equipment for each school; - increased supplements for unique geographical factors for small communities, rural settings, sparseness and climate factors; - greater sensitivity to the challenges posed by declining enrollment and the costs associated with small schools; and - funding that better keeps pace with inflation and other cost increases.
Ministry of Education Government recognizes that small and rural communities have unique needs, and this is reflected in the funding formula for British Columbia school districts. The formula accounts for unique geographic factors like low enrolment, rural and remote factors, small communities, climate and sparseness. It also takes into consideration declining enrolment. The Ministry consults with school districts through the Technical Review Committee that annually reviews the funding formula and makes recommendations to the Minister. Operating funding for the Provinces schools has increased by 150 million to more than 4.027 billion for the 200506 school year. Government is aware that library services, learning resources, music and arts programs, and special needs education are critical to education, which is why school boards were asked to use the 150 million increase to enhance these areas. As a result, school boards have budgeted for 1,600 more staff for 200506, including 630 teachers, 507 education assistants, 365 support staff, 57 education professionals and 35 vice-principals and principals. At the same time, school boards predict there will be 6,700 fewer students in the system.