School District 72 has delayed approval of its 2026-2027 operating budget after learning it may face a funding shortfall tied to the recent provincial labour settlement with the BC Teacher’s Federation.

At the board’s last public meeting, Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Patrick reported that while the province had previously indicated that recent teacher benefit cost increases would be fully funded, new information shared late last week suggests the funding may be allocated on a per-student basis.

That approach would leave SD72 with an estimated annual shortfall of about $385,000.

The board is looking for clarification from the Ministry of Education and Child Care, outlining the impact on SD72 and how the settlement will affect districts disproportionately.

Ministry staff have said they will provide more information by the middle of June.

Trustees expressed concern that the district has already made deep reductions and has no remaining reserves to absorb further costs without affecting programs and services.

The board must pass a balanced budget by June 30 or face potential dismissal.

Trustees were advised that a special meeting may be required later in June once funding clarity is received.

To learn more, visit School District 72.