With spring break wrapping up this weekend, the the 90-day consultation period on school facilities and possible closures enters its final stretch.
The Board of Education of School District 69 (Qualicum) is holding numerous meetings with school staff and various stakeholder groups, including staff, parents, unions, government of all levels and others to help gather as much feedback as possible before the April 29 meeting to consider the facilities review.
The report recommends a K-7 and grade 8-12 education model and the closure of four elementary schools: Qualicum Beach, Parksville, Winchelsea and French Creek to help cover a growing operational deficit.
Despite the busy meeting schedule there is only one more regular public consultation scheduled — Wednesday, April 16, 7 p.m. at Springwood Middle School — though the board has been adding some meetings along the way.
There is also a special Toward a Future for Schools meeting April 10 at 7 p.m. at Oceanside Middle School and a special budget meeting of the board April 8. The next regular board meeting is April 22 and the meeting to consider the facilities review is April 29.
All board meetings are at 7 p.m. in the Parksville Civic and Technology Centre. Check www.sd69.bc.ca for more under 'facilities review' or e-mail Faciltities2014@sd69.bc.ca.