The Grande Prairie Public and Catholic school districts are among 19 across the province that have joined together to share their concerns about the effect the budget will have on them.
They’re all considered “growing” school districts that represent about 65 per cent of Alberta students. In a statement, they argue that 12,000 more students are expected next year, but since population growth is now being funded, class sizes will be increasing.
They also list reductions to support services, and the need to have transfers from operating reserves approved by the education ministry as hurting their ability to best meet student needs.
The PC Party has fired back, saying the funds can be used if they find savings in non-teacher costs, with Education Minister Gordon Dicks quipping they’re “school boards, not school banks.”