City Conversations | Should Vancouver Close Some Schools?

Vancouver schools are currently at about 85% capacity, and the Ministry of Education suggests there are huge savings to be made by consolidating students in fewer schools. The school district has another multi-million dollar deficit and closing or re-purposing schools could help deal with the shortfall. The school district claims it’s much more complicated than that, with some schools under capacity, others are overflowing, and new schools needed in areas of surging population. The school district has adopted a long term plan to close schools but will it increase capacity soon enough to make a difference?

To help you understand what’s going on and what can be done about it, City Conversations welcomes Mike Lombardi, Chair, Vancouver Board of Education;Mabel Sun, Chair, District Parents’ Advisory Group; and Chris Richardson, School Trustee, Vancouver Board of Education. We are also excited to haveLaurie Anderson, Executive Director of SFU Vancouver, as our guest moderator.

Then it’s your turn to question, observe, and offer your perspectives and opinions.

Registration is not required but seating is limited. Please try to arrive early to ensure a seat.