Maureen McRae-Stanger

The Board discussed various educational and administrative topics, including the implementation of provincial policies regarding the restriction of personal digital devices in schools, approving school fee schedules for the 2026-2027 school year, and reviewing the evaluation of the School Liaison Officer Program. The Board also reviewed and approved Policy 6 regarding Trustee Remuneration and Expenses to establish a transparent, benchmarking-based compensation framework. Additionally, updates were provided on the Framework for Enhancing Student Learning, student budget survey feedback, and advocacy priorities for the provincial budget.

The meeting focused on a public delegation regarding the School Liaison Officer program evaluation report. Concerns were raised about the report's methodology, specifically the small sample size of black and indigenous student respondents and the lack of meaningful engagement with those communities. The discussion emphasized historical concerns regarding systemic racism and policing in schools, the impact of cutting youth worker positions, and recommendations for a more targeted and inclusive investigation to better understand student needs and perspectives.

The committee discussed and approved the school fee schedules for the 2026-2027 school year, emphasizing that education is fee-free for graduation requirements while optional supplemental fees exist for enhancements. Financial hardship procedures were reviewed to ensure equitable participation. Additionally, the committee received the third-quarter financial update for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, noting a surplus in the operating fund for the period ending March 31, 2026, and confirming that the district remains on track for a balanced budget by year-end despite reporting risks and ongoing labor settlement funding requirements.

The committee meeting focused on an independent third-party evaluation of the School Liaison Officer (SLO) program. Key discussion topics included an overview of the program's restructuring, findings regarding student and staff perceptions of safety and community, and an analysis of interaction statistics and police charges. The presentation highlighted a significant decline in negative views toward the program among black and indigenous students and underscored the program's focus on proactive relationship building and early intervention rather than criminalization.

The committee meeting agenda covers the evaluation of the School Liaison Officer Program, including a final report on its effectiveness and implementation. Additionally, the committee scheduled a discussion regarding the Draft Policy on Trustee Remuneration and Expenses and the receipt of the Advocacy Subcommittee report.