Obviously Enderby area parents will be monitoring potential changes to the school system very closely.
After all, they have a vested interest in whether M.V. Beattie Elementary becomes kindergarten to Grade 5 and A.L. Fortune Secondary becomes Grade 6 to 12, or Beattie shifts to kindergarten to Grade 6 and Fortune is Grade 7 to 12.
However, the impact of education goes way beyond just those homes with school-aged children.
Viable schools with a range of programs help attract, as well as retain, families to a community and that means home purchases, taxes. grocery shopping and individuals wanting to bolster the workforce and volunteer activities. The social and economic health of a community depends directly on schools.
So when any changes to schools are proposed, municipal leaders, the chamber of commerce and residents, including seniors, should stand up and take notice.
Enderby residents, as well as those from the surrounding electoral area and Splatsin, should consider what is being suggested by the North Okanagan-Shuswap School District and whether grades should shift between the elementary and secondary schools. Perhaps someone in the public has another idea to deal with Beattie being at capacity.
We would urge all residents to read the report developed by district staff, ask questions of administration and attend the consultation meeting April 4 at A.L. Fortune Secondary.
The future of our children is everyone’s business.