IPE/BC monitors private school funding in BC each year and reports the findings to the public.
British Columbians have subsidized private schools with more than $2.5 billion over the last 7 years.
IPE/BC agrees with most British Columbians who believe this public funding to private schools needs to end.
This year’s taxpayer funded subsidy is projected to be $436 million. That’s an increase of 39% since 2013-2014.
When adjusted for inflation, the increase in funding to private schools since 2000-2001 is 122.8% while for public schools the increase over those 19 years is only 15.9%.
With a public system still reeling from more than 15 years of cuts by the previous government, and students with special needs bearing the brunt of the underfunding, there is no excuse for funnelling billions of dollars to private schools. That money should be allocated to the public school system where it can help every child achieve their fullest potential.
Sources:
The data for 2013/14 to 2017/18: BC Ministry of Education, Independent Schools Enrolment and Funding Data, available at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/education/administration/kindergarten-to-grade-12/independent-schools/enrollment_funding_summary.pdf
The data for 2018/19 (fiscal year): BC Ministry of Education, Budget 2018 Overview (February 2018)
The data for 2019/20 (fiscal year): BC Ministry of Education, Budget 2019 Overview (February 2019)
