The School District No. 43 (Coquitlam) Board of Education passed its 2024/25 Annual Budget Bylaw unanimously after holding all three readings at its regular public meeting Tuesday, April 23. The budget totals just over $510M.
The budget process included an early input session February 13, a presentation of the preliminary budget April 9, an opportunity for public input on April 16, and the final budget presentation and approval on April 23. The explicit theme expressed by the Board of Education throughout the process has been 'you talk, we listen'.
The strategic goals and objectives of the Board of Education are set out in the Directions 2025 document which clearly outlines three main goals: Achieve Student Success, Enhance Learning Through Technology and Foster a Sustainable Educational Organization.
The 2024/25 budget process considered the diverse interests of many partner groups and each consideration had to be carefully weighed to limit uncertainty as inflation and external cost pressures continue to challenge the district. Decisions have had to be made to limit the impact of shortfalls while maintaining supports for vulnerable students and maximizing resources for student success.
School District No. 43 (Coquitlam) has a history of success and student achievement levels continue to be among the top in Metro Vancouver and the Province. Teaching excellence, strategic leadership and sound financial decisions are all contributing factors toward these positive outcomes.
Board Chair Michael Thomas thanked Secretary-Treasurer Randy Manhas, Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Nita Mikl, and their staff for their exceptional efforts in preparing the 2024/25 budget and said, “The Board of Education remains committed to multi-year budgeting and financial planning while implementing prudent adjustments, as needed. Our unwavering focus is on delivering a stable, predictable, and world-class education system that supports learners, employees, and our community."
Referring to the budget process, Superintendent Patricia Gartland emphasized the importance of the close relationships between the board and partner groups, “The insights gathered during consultations with the Coquitlam Teachers' Association, CUPE 561, the Coquitlam Principals' and Vice-Principals' Association, and the District Parents' Advisory Council were invaluable. The board takes pride in passing a budget that is both responsive and financially sustainable, fostering an environment where students and staff can thrive."
School District No. 43 (Coquitlam) is the third largest in B.C. with approximately 32,000 students in 71 schools and serves the cities of Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, and Port Moody, as well as the villages of Anmore and Belcarra.
