VANCOUVER, B.C. – April 30, 2026 – The Vancouver School Board (VSB) approved a balanced budget for the 2026–2027 school year on Wednesday evening, meeting provincial requirements while responding to economic uncertainty and declining enrolment. 

The $826‑million budget supports public education across more than 100 schools and worksites, serving more than 51,000 students and employing nearly 8,000 staff. The Board adopted the financial plan following a three‑month engagement process and public debate. 

All school boards in B.C. are legally required to pass balanced budgets. VSB’s financial plan was developed amid rising cost pressures, enrolment shifts and reduced international student revenue expected because of federal immigration policy changes. 

Budget priorities for 2026–2027 

The approved budget reflects priorities raised during engagement with inherent rights holders, formal stakeholder groups, students, their families, staff and members of the public, while maintaining a clear focus on protecting core classroom supports. 

Key elements of the 2026–2027 budget include:

• Strengthening inclusive learning and student support, including more education assistants (SSAs), and adding hours for supervision aide services. 
• Supporting families by taking steps to explore expanded before‑ and after‑school child care opportunities.

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“This financial plan reflects careful stewardship of public education funds while keeping student learning and well‑being as our priority in a challenging and uncertain environment,” said VSB chair Victoria Jung. “Trustees reflected carefully on what we heard through broad engagement, while balancing enrolment and economic pressures beyond our control. The result is a financial plan focused on responsible, sustainable decisions in the public interest, informed by community input and the needs of students district‑wide.” 

The Board will continue to monitor enrolment trends, financial risks and economic conditions throughout the year as part of its ongoing oversight responsibilities. More information, including the approved 2026–2027 financial plan and engagement summary report, is available on the District website. 

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For more information: communications@vsb.bc.ca