Central Okanagan Schools Face Potential Budget Adjustments Amid Low Enrolment

The Central Okanagan Public Schools has concluded its year-end financial review, with external auditors approving an annual budget of $381,087,979 for the 2025-26 school year. The final budget may be subject to adjustments depending on the outcome of projected enrolment figures, which are currently lower than anticipated.

During a meeting on September 10, 2025, Superintendent Jon Rever presented a report indicating that the budget was constructed with a conservative estimate of a 150 full-time-equivalent (FTE) student enrolment increase. However, preliminary data suggest that some elementary schools are experiencing lower enrolment rates than expected. This trend raises concerns as the Ministry of Education and Childcare‘s funding formula relies on per-student ratios.

Last year, the district encountered a $2.5 million funding shortfall due to enrolment numbers falling below projections. The Board of Education will receive an update on final enrolment figures from Rever during a meeting scheduled for September 24. District officials are currently developing a contingency plan to address the impact of lower enrolment rates.

In addition to financial discussions, the Board welcomed new staff members during the meeting. Lynda Reeve was appointed as assistant superintendent, while Sylvie Forget has taken on the role of vice-principal at École Glenmore Elementary. Promotions within the district included Bryce Owens as principal of Raymer Elementary and Ty Nelson as vice-principal of École KLO Middle School.

The demand for school transportation has also been highlighted. Between January 31 and September 5, 2025, the district received 7,299 transportation applications for 76 bus routes. Of these, 5,096 seats were assigned to 3,833 eligible students, along with 1,034 courtesy riders. Courtesy riders, who are not eligible for a seat, gain access to bus routes when vacancies arise.

The Board of Education has declared the week of September 22-26 as Truth and Reconciliation Week. Additionally, September 30 has been designated as National Day of Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This day is recognized as a statutory holiday in British Columbia schools, meaning that schools will be closed.

As the Central Okanagan Public Schools prepares for the upcoming year, the focus will remain on addressing enrolment challenges and ensuring that all students receive the support they need.