Quote:
Originally Posted by Slava
I do think that there should be changes to the education system (some of which would likely reduce costs), but thats another story. The reality of our school system is that we have a huge infrastructure problem, along with large class sizes and about a 70% graduation rate (for kids finishing with a diploma after 3 years from starting grade 10). At the same time though we know that we have a shortage of skilled workers and the demographics look even worse a decade from now.
Don't get me wrong, the education system really is excellent. Its just that the budget is not flush with excess and really needs more cash. Change to a system in that state will be incremental as well.
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There are definitely changes needed of the "more cash" and "spend it differently" type. Part of the infrastructure problem is that the schools are in the wrong places. We have too many schools too close together in older neighbourhoods, which are transitioning to childless couples/singles/seniors, and not enough in the suburbs.
This problem is exacerbated by the vested interest and NIMBYism of some of these neighbourhoods. Any school slated to be closed gets a huge response from the affected community. Maybe if those who have been waiting years for a school in their neighbourhood realized the province won't pay for new schools when a board has space they'd speak up.
Imagine how much something like Sunnyside Elementary would be worth on the open market. (Not to pick on Sunnyside in particular). Many inner city schools are underutilized, and would be hugely valuable redevelopment sites. Queen Elizabeth High School is especially bad, it's the designated high school for parts of the city that are very far away from it...