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Living Sky School and local MLA’s hold discussions on board issues

Mar 1, 2016 | 7:12 AM

It was an inquisitive board room, as the Living Sky School Board met with two local MLA’s to discuss the state of the division.

Rosthern-Shellbrook MLA Scott Moe and Cut Knife-Turtleford MLA Larry Doke fielded questions and concerns from the board members about Living Sky on Feb, 29.

One issue raised was the current funding model for schools and how it affects the divisions.

Doke assured concerns have been heard about the funding model and it will be looked into.

“The funding model, when it was introduced in 2012, was subject to review and that’s what they are going through right now. It maybe wasn’t perfect, but I think the review will definitely clean it up so to speak,” Doke said.

Another major topic up for discussion was money for infrastructure.

Director of Education Randy Fox said the division’s aging buildings need work done, especially on the roofs where rain is causing water damage inside of the schools.

“There seems to be less money available to support maintenance of those buildings. We’re not expecting new schools; we’re not even looking for new schools. What we want is adequate funds to keep the buildings up that we have now.”

When asked about the meeting, Doke said they are something he and the other MLA’s look forward to.

“It’s always great to meet at least once a year, if not twice. The last tour we went on, of a couple schools, was very informative, so it’s good to see where the dollars are going and what’s going on. These are very important meetings.”

Fox echoed the statement. “The board appreciates the opportunity to meet with the MLA’s and bring forward the challenges they face as a board and I guess getting that feedback from our MLA’s as to how they see the government moving forward.”

Fox added he believes the MLA’s genuinely care about what the board has to say and they take the issues to the government on the board’s behalf.

 

mkelly@jpbg.ca