The BC Government is launching a pilot project to use existing school spaces as well as school district resources to provide before-and after-school care.
“As a parent, I know how hard it can be to balance work and school hours. It’s hard to find care for your child before school starts or after the bell rings at the end of the day,” said Premier David Eby.
“That is why our government is taking action with more before- and after-school child care options.”
Three school districts have been selected for the initiative; the Nechako Lakes, Chilliwack and Nanaimo-Ladysmith school districts.
Early Childhood Educators and support staff in these school districts will provide leaning and care for children in classrooms and school spaces the kids are familiar with.
According to the province this means busy parents will have greater flexibility for school dropoff and pickup times.
The Ministry of State for Child Care is providing more than $2 million over two years to the three school districts, which will create an estimated 180 new licenced child care spaces.
Each district will create a model of care that meets provincial guidelines and local needs.
“Nechako Lakes School District is excited to participate in this pilot for school-aged child care on school grounds,” said SD 91 Board Chair Dave Christie.
“The results from our parent and caregiver survey tell us that there is a need across all our communities for additional before- and after-school child care spaces.”
The initiative will be evaluated and lessons will support ongoing expansion in other districts.
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