Jun. 24, 2021
In May 2019, the CBE launched a community engagement initiative to develop a sustainable plan that balances enrolment across CBE high schools and gives students access, flexibility and choice in programming.
Based on feedback received from stakeholders, and taking into account CBE’s values and planning principles, we confirm that the finalized plan is the same plan that was shared on June 1, 2021 for a final phase of feedback from students, staff, parents and community members.
The feedback gathered during the final phase included more than 70 comments posted on idea boards and more than 2,000 survey responses. Highlights from the online surveys include:
- 71 per cent of parents/public, 72 per cent of staff and 57 per cent of students strongly agree or agree that the proposed plan accomplishes the decision to be made.
- When asked if the proposed plan addresses the top themes identified through fall 2019 engagement, responses were as follows:
- Strong programming: 78 per cent of parents/public, 75 per cent of staff and 72 per cent of students strongly agree or agree.
- Easy to get to: 72 per cent of parents/public, 74 per cent of staff and 68 per cent of students strongly agree or agree.
- Transportation matters: 73 per cent of parents/public, 71 per cent of staff and 65 per cent of students strongly agree or agree.
- Grade configuration: 82 per cent of parents/pubic, 83 per cent of staff and 74 per cent of students strongly agree or agree.
The third survey question asked about the various ways families could be affected by the proposed plan (i.e., travel time to and from school, school space and movement within the building). In all areas, the majority response indicated it would be either a “positive impact” or “no impact”. Full survey results are posted on the high school engagement webpage.
Christopher Usih, Chief Superintendent of Schools says, “This decision was made after much careful thought and consideration of all the input and feedback provided over the last two years. In addition to the feedback gathered, the decision considered our CBE values and planning principles, available space and resources, and financial sustainability. We are pleased that the feedback suggests strong overall support for the plan.
The finalized plan provides quality learning opportunities that allow students to meet the requirements to complete high school. It does this in three key ways:
- Provides a more equitable learning experience for all high school students.
- Maintains a regular program at every high school.
- Allows for alternative and academic enrichment programming when possible.
“We believe this decision is the best one possible for student learning across our system. We want to thank everyone who took the time to participate. Your contributions made a meaningful difference and are much appreciated,” said Usih.
