School starts next week! In anticipation of that fact, the BC government has announced a new tax credit for parents of students.
“We have quite a few different tax credits that we’ve put in to try to help families – for arts, for sports,” says Education Minister Mike Bernier. “Now we’re announcing a $250 tax credit when you do your taxes next year for school supplies.”
Parents won’t even have to keep the receipts for their purchases.
Bernier says parents should also consider their eligibility for the $1200 BC Training and Education Savings Grant. It’s available to parents of children born in 2006 or later and can be put toward post-secondary education or training for your child.
The start of the new school year will also mean the implementation of a new curriculum in BC schools.
While the basics will remain the same, the new curriculum will emphasize collaboration, critical thinking and communication skills – something Bernier says universities, colleges and employers are looking for.
“In the classroom is the new curriculum. This is something I’m really proud of. Starting next week is when the kindergarten to Gr. 9 school curriculum is going to be implemented right across British Columbia.”
The curriculum applies to students in kindergarten through Gr. 9 and is being rolled out for optional use in grades 10-12.
The government has also put $6 million toward adding coding to the classroom.
“Part of that commitment was also, by the end of this calendar year, we’ll have high speed internet in every school right across British Columbia. So, within the next couple of months, you’ll see that and most schools are already completed.”
The high speed initiative is about ensuring all students have equal access and equal opportunities.