The Burnaby school district is getting an extra financial boost from the provincial government to help pay for programs for needy kids.
"We're certainly pleased there has been funds allocated to us," said Larry Hayes, board of education chair. "Our understanding is this isn't new money in the system."
The money - nearly $430,000 - comes from the government's "supplement for vulnerable students," a pot of roughly $11.2 million for school districts where the number of vulnerable students is increasing. That supplement is on top of the $2.2 million in Community LINK funding that the Burnaby school district will also receive. Community LINK is a government pot of money to help pay for programs for vulnerable students from poor families.
"Burnaby certainly has their share of kids that need that extra help," Hayes said. "Despite new money coming in, were still projecting a shortfall this coming year of $1.5 to 2 million."
"With Burnaby being a very central location in having families, needy families, refugee and immigrant families landing on our doorstep. I think there's always going to be room for more programs and more dollars."
In a Liberal caucus press release, local MLAs Harry Bloy and Richard Lee lauded the announcement.
"This funding will help School District 41 support students who need help the most," Bloy said.
"These additional funds will allow school districts across the province to provide innovated programs which help vulnerable students succeed," Lee added.
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