Chignecto-Central Regional School Board Review Underway

The province has appointed an experienced civil servant to review budget options for the Chignecto-Central Regional School Board that will put kids and learning first.

Doug Stewart, a senior Treasury Board advisor, begins his review today, April 12.

"Over the past 18 months, Doug worked in my department and with school board staff, including Chignecto-Central, on the new funding formula and other issues," Education Minister Ramona Jennex said. "He understands school board budgets well, and he understands the province's commitment to putting students first in funding decisions."

Mr. Stewart, who has 28 years of experience in the civil service, will report to the province within the next two weeks. The province will discuss the report with school board officials by the end of the month before final budget decisions are made.

"The board will still have difficult decisions to make, given the reality of declining enrolments," said Ms. Jennex. "But having more options on the table that protect critical services for kids is imperative."

Since 2008-09, the province increased per-student funding in Chignecto-Central Regional School Board by 12 per cent, to its highest point ever this year. Over the same time period, enrolment dropped by 7.5 per cent, or more than 1,700 students.

In 2012-13, the school board will receive $177 million, including $3.8 million for libraries, to educate its students.