Parents in Surrey are raising concerns about major cuts to public schools as the district prepares to address a $16 million budget shortfall.
School District 36 is set to finalize its budget next week. Early details suggest significant cuts are on the table, including the removal of elementary band programs, educational assistant (EA) positions, and specialized learning centres for students with additional needs.
Anne Whitmore, spokesperson for the Surrey District Parent Advisory Council (DPAC), says the impact of these cuts will be serious—especially for students who already struggle.
“After decades of underfunding, these latest cuts are especially damaging,” Whitmore told OMNI News, a sister station of 1130 NewsRadio. “It’s often the children on the margins who suffer the most.”
She likened the effect to turning a ship at sea. “Even small changes can shift a child’s future,” she said. “We are deeply concerned that we are limiting our children’s opportunities by failing to invest properly in education.”
According to Whitmore, the district expects to lose between 40 and 50 educational assistants through a hiring freeze and staff attrition. These assistants typically support several students each.
“It’s unacceptable,” she said. “Each EA supports four to six children. Without replacements, many students will lose the support they rely on. That support is essential for accessible education.”
In response, DPAC has joined forces with the Surrey Teachers’ Association and CUPE to launch a campaign called “Surrey Students Deserve Better.” The campaign calls for better funding and protection of students’ educational services.
“Students on the margins feel the cuts first,” Whitmore added.
A public rally is planned for Saturday, May 17, as parents, educators, and advocates prepare to speak out against the proposed reductions.
