The Prince George District Teachers’ Association (PGDTA) and CUPE Local 3742 feel the School District 57’s draft budget for 2025-26 misses the mark.
A presentation was given on the draft budget at the April 8th board meeting, where it was noted the School District would have a surplus between $300,000 to $600,000.
PGDTA President, Katherine Trepanier said the feedback they provided before the draft budget was created had been ignored.
“Some of the things that we felt were priorities were better support for new teachers and uncertified teachers.”
“We’re looking for a joint mentorship program hopefully, we’re looking to have some supports for equity, diversity and inclusion to be able to support all of our students as much as possible.”
Other feedback missed included in-service training for changes to reporting and district assessments, return to weekly resource delivery to schools from the District Learning Centre, recruitment and retention, and before and after school program investment.
Trepanier said the surplus is suggested to go towards increased district administration, with remaining funds for maintenance such as interior painting and asphalt repair instead of priorities from partner groups.
For years, partnered groups were able to give a statement at every board meeting which were used to speak about important issues to members and students.
she said that mid last year, the board decided to not allow the PGDTA or CUPE to speak at board meetings, adding their voices have been silenced.
The School District is still taking in input until Tuesday (April 22nd), which Trepanier encourages the public to take part in.
The final approval for the budget will be on May 13th.
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