I am excited to share the news from today’s provincial announcement about childcare in British Columbia. On behalf of the British Columbia School Trustees Association, I would like to sincerely thank Premier Eby and Minister Beare for their ongoing leadership and dedication to strengthening childcare supports throughout our province. Their collaborative approach and acknowledgement of the vital role that school boards play in supporting families show the strength of working together toward shared goals.
Read the provincial announcement here
We know that public education matters. Families across our province can rely on our schools to serve as central pillars of support for our communities. Today’s announcement reaffirms this central truth while also opening new doors for how we can better serve our families.
The legislative amendments announced today will empower boards of education with enhanced flexibility to:
- Support early learning by offering childcare services for children of all ages, from infants through school-age children (0-5 years)
- Provide childcare on school grounds during non-instructional days
- Ensure that childcare operations are sustainable and do not impact the targeted funding essential for our K-12 education programs
These changes represent far more than convenience for families—they are about ensuring the success of every student and every family in British Columbia. By enabling on-site childcare, we can better support working parents and caregivers, strengthen family stability, and create seamless educational experiences that serve children from their earliest years through graduation.
School districts across our province are at different stages in their childcare journey, and we recognize that this transition will require thoughtful planning and implementation. The BCSTA remains committed to supporting our member boards through our strong partnership with the Ministry of Education and Child Care as these critical changes take effect.
This announcement reflects the collaborative relationship we have established with the government—one that recognizes trustees as essential partners in supporting students and their families. We look forward to continuing this important work together as we explore how these new opportunities can best serve the unique needs of communities throughout British Columbia.
Thank you to all trustees for your ongoing dedication to public education and your commitment to ensuring that every child in BC has the support they need to succeed.
Thank you,
Tracy Loffler
President, British Columbia School Trustees Association