“The School Board made the decision based on the best educational outcomes for the students. They were elected to make the tough decisions and they have. While some of the Community will be disappointed by the decision and it will be difficult for the parents I believe everyone in Osoyoos wants the best education possible for their young people.”

Linda Larson, MLA

 

The trustees of School District 53 have made a difficult decision, and as a local issue we must respect the independence of the school board to do what it believes is best for students and the district. I would like to thank everyone who became involved in this process: Osoyoos municipal council, community members and school trustees. Ultimately the decision was made to give students the best education possible, and I have no hesitation in saying they will receive it at South Okanagan Secondary School, which is an outstanding institution with first-class teachers and administrators.

Overall, our government is investing $5.6 billion in education this year, and total education funding is up by $110 million at a time when enrolment has dropped by more than 70,000. From personal experience I understand the deep connections we have to our community schools. This has been an emotional, gut-wrenching process for the citizens of Osoyoos, but I am confident it will result in better educational outcomes for our students, and Osoyoos will remain one of the best places in Canada to live.