Ministers statement about returning to school

Lisa Beare, the Minister of Education and Child Care, expressed excitement for the new school year, underlining the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments for all students in British Columbia. The government is prioritizing mental wellness through programs like Expect Respect and a Safe Education (Erase), which also offer resources for families. Updates to the curriculum include Holocaust education, Black history, and life-saving skills such as CPR and AED training in Grade 10. Nearly 90% of B. C.

schools now have food programs to ensure no child learns on an empty stomach. Early literacy screenings will be implemented in elementary schools to promptly identify students needing extra help. Additionally, the government has funded approximately 14,000 new licensed childcare spaces on school grounds since 2018. Investments are being made in teacher training and recruitment, especially focusing on Indigenous educators and those in rural areas. Beare reaffirmed her commitment to collaborating with families and education partners to enhance the school system's inclusivity and responsiveness.