Membership Matters
BCSTA is the non-partisan provincial advocacy group for governance in public education.
Membership means a stronger voice and more effective advocacy on behalf communities across BC.
A strong public education system matters to us, and we know it matters to you, too.
The foundation of a strong public education system is good governance—and at the British Columbia School Trustees Association (BCSTA), supporting that foundation is our mission. As the only nonpartisan organization representing locally elected boards of education across B.C., BCSTA plays a vital role in strengthening democratic governance, fostering innovation, and championing student success.
Boards of education hold a distinctive role in our society. They are democratically elected to represent the values, priorities, and needs of their local communities. Through strategic decision-making, they shape the direction of schools and influence the future of our province. BCSTA supports boards with high-quality professional development, legal and policy assistance, and purposeful networking opportunities. We help trustees develop their leadership skills, collaborate effectively, and make informed decisions that promote equitable student outcomes.
Membership in BCSTA means having a unified voice in education policy. It signifies being part of a provincial movement that promotes strong public education, advocates for sustainable funding, and tackles complex issues such as mental health, Indigenous education, and climate resilience. It also provides access to decades of expertise, trusted relationships with government and stakeholders, and a commitment to building a better future for all learners.
For over 120 years, BCSTA has been a leader in the K-12 public education system in BC. Our work is rooted in the belief that when school boards govern effectively, students thrive—and when students thrive, our communities and our democracy do too.
Membership in BCSTA isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential. It’s how we amplify trustees’ voices, create meaningful change, and uphold the values of public education across British Columbia.