Victoria-B.C. is launching a two-year pilot program to integrate before- and after-school child care into classrooms and other school spaces.
This initiative will use existing school space as well as school district resources and staff to provide seamless care without additional pickups and drop offs.
“As a parent, I know how hard it can be to balance work and school hours. It’s hard to find care for your child before school starts or after the bell rings at the end of the day,” said Premier David Eby. “That is why our government is taking action with more before- and after-school child care options. We’re partnering with three school districts to provide care on school grounds so children benefit from familiar faces and places throughout the day and families can count on one pickup and drop off location.”
Three school districts have been selected for this initiative this fall: Chilliwack, Nanaimo-Ladysmith and Nechako Lakes. Early childhood educators and support staff in these school districts will provide learning and care for children in classrooms and school spaces the kids are familiar with. This means busy parents will have greater flexibility for school drop off and pickup times, while also saving time spent commuting or juggling kids across multiple locations.
“Our government is committed to increasing access to school-age child care and continue to explore options to better support families. School ECEs and district support staff not only provide learning to children but also form strong bonds with them.” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. “As such, these educators are well-positioned to provide a seamless transition from the school day into the extended hours that many families need for child care.”
The ministry is providing more than $2 million over two years to the three school districts, which will create an estimated 180 new licensed child care spaces. This initiative will gather critical information to assist with future expansion of this model into other districts.
Each district will create a model of care that meets provincial guidelines and local needs. The initiative will be evaluated and lessons will support ongoing expansion in other districts.
These spaces will be affordable for parents as they will meet regional affordability benchmarks set by the ministry. Families may also be eligible for fee reductions of as much as $115 per month, per child. Families that need additional support with the cost of child care may also be eligible for the Affordable Child Care Benefit.