School Board officials at SD#53 say finding ways to cut the budget are difficult but have to be done and soon.

We asked questions to School Superintendent Bev Young and Secretary-Treasurer Lynda Minnabarriet because of some criticism found on social media about possible cuts to counselling programmes done by outside contractors.

Young says a lot of money can be saved by doing these programs in-house and better follow up by students is probable. She also says curriculum requirements are to be followed so students will still get the instruction and education. The superintendent indicated that all school administrators will have to decide in the fall how this will be done and by whom.

Minnabarriet outlined the savings on the cancellation of non-essential service contracts:

*Family Life – $19,250

*Elementary Drug and Alcohol – $18,500

Family Support – MCFD – $50,000

Natural gas for heating fixed contract termination will save – $87,750

You-Learn – teacher and clerical hours reductions will save – $90,000

*First two mentioned will be handled in-house  – “yes, we’re not cancelling the programs; just providing them in different ways” says Minnabarriet.

The school district must balance its budget in a document endorsed by the end of June. Next meeting June 26th.