GUIDING PRINCIPLES

All operating and financial decisions at VSB are informed by the Education Plan 2026 and the priorities outlined in the Framework for Enhancing Student Learning report. The Education Plan presents the District’s values and its commitment to creating an equitable learning environment.  

FINANCIAL PLAN ENGAGEMENT PROCESS

VSB’s financial planning process is guided by the Education Plan, the 2024-2025 Framework for Enhancing Student Learning (FESL) report and applicable Board and provincial policies. Engagement activities follow best practice standards set by the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) and in alignment with the District’s administrative procedures.

Our goal is to actively seek and incorporate feedback from the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), District leaders and the District’s formal stakeholder groups, as well as feedback from students, their families, staff and the broader public in the annual budget and financial plan. We aim to provide clear information, ensure every voice is valued and make financial decisions that align with our community’s values and our District’s educational goals. All feedback will be considered by the Board. Any decisions regarding financial planning and engagement, will be made by the Board of Education (trustees). 

A summary of key engagement activities is provided below.

VSB encourages input and feedback as part of the budget development process. Hearing priorities, seeking input and receiving feedback is a key element to the Board’s budget considerations. To this end, guidance will be sought from inherent rights holders and through the Indigenous Education Council (IEC), input by representatives of the formal stakeholder groups which include unions, associations, the District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC) and the Vancouver District Student Council (VDSC) as well as feedback from students, their families, staff and the broader Vancouver public. Public engagement therefore will rest in the inform, consult and involve areas of the IAP2 spectrum.

Written submissions regarding budget priorities for the development of the 2026-2027 financial plan may be sent via email to budget@vsb.bc.ca. All written submissions to the Board are considered public documents. The Board, therefore, reserves the right to make any submissions available to the public.