Minister's Year-End Letter to Staff, Parents & Caregivers

Dear colleagues, parents and caregivers:

As we near the end of 2024, I wanted to take the opportunity to wish each and every one of you a wonderful holiday season and quality time with your families.

I am truly honoured to have been appointed the new Minister of Education and Child Care, and am excited to work with all of you to ensure that BC's school system and child care sector are safe, inclusive and supportive for all.

I'd like to thank all of BC's educators and early childhood educators, education sector staff, child care providers and partners for the quality care and education they provide each day for children. The work you do ensures that our province continues to be a leader in education and child care throughout Canada and the world.

As a mother with a child in the public school system, I also recognize the remarkable effort from parents and caregivers who remain dedicated every day to making their kids' lives better so they can achieve success. There are many people who do so much to make our schools better, not just for their own kids, but for all young people.

Early learning and child care is so important for families, and I want to acknowledge the incredible work all our partners are doing to increase access to child care. The expansion of child care on school grounds helps children to become part of the school community sooner and allows parents and guardians to work or pursue other opportunities, which strengthens our communities as a whole.

I recognize we still have challenges ahead, from high enrolment growth to difficulty finding child care to barriers some children and students may experience in the classroom or child care setting. Moving into 2025, I am focused on keeping children safe, ensuring they feel included and that they belong, and that they have the learning supports they need to do well. We all want the best for children, and I am committed to working with you to help them be successful.

From the bottom of my heart, I appreciate your support and hard work. I hope you all have a wonderful break with those nearest to you.

Warmest regards,

Lisa Beare
Minister