Minister's Statement About Returning to School

Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care, has issued the following statement about returning to learning:

“While I’m sure many students wish summer could be just a little longer, I am thrilled to welcome students and staff to the start of another school year. It is always so exciting on the first day as students and staff walk through the school doors and fill the hallways with excitement, laughter and anticipation – ready to take on the new learning journey in the year ahead.

“As minister of education and child care, I’m proud to support the people who make schools strong: educators; school district staff; trustees; support staff; families; and students. This year, creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming school environment remains a top priority for our government. Every student deserves to show up as their full, authentic self and to know they belong.

“Programs, such as Expect Respect and a Safe Education (Erase), are already helping schools support mental wellness and provide anti-bullying resources. Erase also contains great resources for parents and families, such as training to support families and caregivers in navigating the digital world and tips for having difficult conversations around bullying. Access zones will be in place again this year to help keep students and staff safe and free from harmful disruptions on or near school grounds.

“Students need to be fed to do their best. Almost 90% of schools in B.C. are operating school food programs since we introduced funding for Feeding Futures. These programs work toward ensuring no child learns on an empty stomach.

“We are updating what students learn. Holocaust education has been added to Grade 10 social studies. Students will also explore Black history, Japanese Canadian internment and discrimination faced by Indigenous Peoples.

“Students will also be learning life-saving skills. CPR and automated external defibrillation (AED) learning are now part of the Grade 10 physical and health education.

“This year, all elementary schools will begin early literacy screening, starting in kindergarten. This will help identify students who may need additional reading support so students can get help earlier in their education.

“Since 2018, we have funded the creation of approximately 14,000 new licensed child care spaces on school grounds throughout the province. By expanding access and reducing the cost of child care, we’re working to provide children with early learning experiences that set them up for school and enable families to access child care and education in one place.

“We are building for the future. This year, new schools and additions are opening around the province, and many more are being built or upgraded through the Ministry of Infrastructure.  

“We know teachers play one of the most important roles in a child’s learning. We are investing in teacher training, recruitment and retention, with a focus on Indigenous teachers and teachers in rural areas. Because mentorship plays a key role in retention and professional growth, we are working with sector partners to bring back a provincial teacher mentorship program. As we begin a new school year, I want to thank every educator and staff member. Your work matters. Together, we are building a better future for every student in B.C.

“While I know that we do face challenges with fiscal and global uncertainty, I am committed to working with families and education partners to create the kind of school system we can all be proud of. One that is inclusive, responsive, safe and rooted in the values of care, equity and opportunity.

“I’m excited about the year ahead and proud to support our public education system. Here’s to another engaging, exciting and fun-filled school year!”

Learn More:

Learn more about Erase: https://www.erase.gov.bc.ca